6 steps for acting on expanded pediatric coverage

Thanks to AOA advocacy during the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a robust pediatric vision essential health benefit will be integrated with small group and individual health plan coverage starting in January.

This means potential access to millions of new patients.

This benefit brings potential access to millions of new patients—but to take full advantage of this new opportunity, you must be aware of the changes being implemented and take action when necessary.

Coverage expansion for optometrists will occur in two major ways: through new insurance carriers entering the market and offering new health plans (products) and through existing carriers offering new plans. Because participation, in some instances, may require action on your part, the AOA Third Party Center suggests six steps optometrists should follow to take advantage of coverage expansion opportunities and offers resources to guide you (member log-in required).

For additional information or answers to any questions, contact the AOA Third Party Center at TPC@aoa.org.